Urgent Aid for Flood Victims
Paetongtarn’s Hands-On Response
On June 28, 2025, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra visited Phaya Mengrai district in Chiang Rai to distribute aid kits to residents reeling from severe flooding. Accompanied by key officials, including Deputy Interior Minister Theerarat Samrejvanich, she ordered swift relief efforts to address the crisis. The visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting communities hit hard by natural disasters.
Flood Conditions Improving
Water Levels Drop Significantly
Chiang Rai Governor Charin Thongsuk reported that floodwaters in Phaya Mengrai had receded by over 80% by Saturday morning, offering hope for recovery. However, ongoing rainfall poses risks, and full stabilization depends on weather conditions. Once stable, officials will assess damages to roll out compensation under the Disaster Relief Fund, ensuring affected residents receive timely support.
Challenges for Residents
Basic Needs Unmet
Despite receding waters, many in tambon Mae Pao and Ban Sop Pao struggle with limited access to clean water, cooking equipment, and fuel. The lack of these essentials has left families unable to prepare meals, prompting calls for ready-to-eat food distribution. The army has stepped in with emergency aid, while state agencies monitor for potential further rainfall to prevent renewed flooding.
Comprehensive Relief Measures
Financial and Material Support
The government has outlined aid packages, including 150 baht daily per person for meals, 700 baht per family for survival kits, and up to 49,500 baht per household for home repairs. Additional support includes 5,700 baht for farm building repairs and 1,100 baht per person for clothing. These measures aim to address immediate needs and support long-term recovery for flood-hit communities.
Community Engagement
PM Connects with Locals
At Wat Santikhiri and Ban Sop Pao, Paetongtarn met residents, offering encouragement and distributing survival kits. She acknowledged the growing impact of climate change, pledging robust government action. Her call for rapid compensation processing through the Interior Ministry reflects a focus on minimizing delays, ensuring residents can rebuild without prolonged hardship.
Political Figures Join Efforts
New Minister’s Early Involvement
Attakorn Sirilattayakorn, the newly appointed agriculture minister from the Klatham Party, joined the relief efforts, showcasing proactive engagement before officially taking office. His presence, alongside Paetongtarn’s hands-on approach, highlights a unified response to the crisis. The government’s coordinated efforts aim to restore normalcy and strengthen public trust in Chiang Rai’s recovery process.
